The race to be the most productive, effective and savvy employee is typically heated in any organisation. In the world of big business, it can be particularly intense. In fact, CMO contributor Dr Linda Friedland explained that the business mantra of 'bigger, faster, more and more' has led to the rise of 'corporate athletes'.

This concept covers people who are so committed to their work that they effectively train like someone from the sporting sphere to remain on point. However, the flip side to this is that the sheer pace of the modern business world can quickly lead to burnout, which in turn impacts overarching employee wellness and corporate health.

Burnout, anxiety and employee health

While it's only natural that many employers expect their employees to work hard, burnout can quickly lead to other, broad issues. Specifically, Financial Times contributor Emma Jacobs surmised anxiety across high-pressure workplaces is relatively common, and it can massively inhibit a worker's ability to make the most effective decisions.

So, how widespread is anxiety in the workplace? Well, Ms Jacobs explored a study from Rotman School of Management in Toronto and surmised that 41 per cent of workers - from an array of industries - suffer from anxiety at various points.

Moreover, here in Australia, statistics published by the government's Comcare explained that anxiety is up there with the most common, debilitating illnesses including arthritis, diabetes and cancer.

Starting the fight back

As the data shows, there can be no denying that workplace anxiety is a core wellness issue that needs to be addressed, but how can organisations ensure that their staff are protected? Well, it starts with assessing the options for an encompassing corporate health insurance policy.

Not only can such an arrangement boost general productivity - as employees have a safety net if they fall ill - but anxiety itself and the consequent health issues can be dealt with when they arise.

A comprehensive report from Medibank explained that the vast majority of Australian workers who participate in workplace wellness initiatives - such as those that are backed by a corporate health plan - report improvements in stress, physiological wellness and the aforementioned anxiety.

Workplace stress and anxiety are just as prevalent as broader health issues like arthritis and diabetes.

Regardless of sector, today's organisations need to ensure that they have a thorough and effective plan in place to aid the wellness of employees. Starting the journey to improved workplace health doesn't have to be laborious, providing business decision makers seek out the right advice.

To that end, if you'd like to learn more about corporate health insurance, call a HICA expert today on 1300 44 22 01.